Unity for Justice is a world-wide project, initiated to facilitate the liberation of Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin from prison. Sholom Mordechai ran the Iowa-based Agriprocessors kosher meat factory until it was closed down by federal authorities in 2008. Subsequently, Rubashkin was arrested for defrauding a bank in order to maintain a line of credit to keep the family business afloat. Unlike others charged with similar crimes, Sholom Mordechai was not granted bail during his trial, was kept in solitary confinement for days, was denied kosher food and access to religious items for significant periods of time. In addition, the banks he defrauded had no complaint against him, because he made payments on time. The only crime was allegedly falsifying business information in order to acquire the loans.

Despite his alleged wrongdoings, Rubashkin is clearly not a threat to society, yet he has been treated like a violent criminal. In June 2010, Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin was sentenced to 27 years imprisonment.

It is to this injustice that the wider Jewish community, and much of general America, has reacted so strongly. The American public expects its judicial system to be just and non-discriminatory. Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin’s sentence is far harsher than his crime, and Judge Linda Reade’s decision disappointed many Americans’ faith in their legal system.

The Rubashkin case has resulted in solidarity evenings, prayer gatherings and generous contributions to Sholom Mordechai’s defense team. The injustice has bolstered widespread unity among people from all walks of life. Why has this case touched so many hearts across the world?